1. How long does the design process take?
2. Do you have floor plans that could serve as a starting point for review and discussion; and possibly be modified to fit our needs?
3. Can you build a smaller custom home for us since our children are gone?
4. Can you help us find a place to build?
5. We are just exploring the idea of building. Can we schedule a consult with Steve and what is the fee?
6. How much does a custom home cost per square foot?
7. Once we decide we would like to hire Steve to build our home what is the process?
8. We have never built a house before. When do we chose the interior items such as carpeting, etc.?
9. I assume we can upgrade any condition within the house, such as having more expensive carpeting or a more expensive set of cabinets.

How long does the design process take?
The time is somewhat variable dependent upon the client. We generally tell a client to figure on 4-6 months. That timing allows time to create sketches, plans, develop alternative ideas, and get feedback from the client without their feeling pressured.
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Can you build a smaller custom home for us since our children are gone?
Yes. In fact, we have developed plans for two new communities targeted to meet the need of "empty nesters."
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Can you help us find a place to build?
Steve Schutz builds in a number of northside communities and have a very good knowledge base regarding new and planned communities that could be options. A few of these communities are discussed on this website (see our "Communities" page). Additionally, if you already own a lot or land, Steve can build on your property.
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We are just exploring the idea of building. Can we schedule a consult with Steve and what is the fee?
Steve would be glad to meet with you and to listen to your ideas for a new home and to get sense of your budget. One frequently asked questions is can I afford what I really want in a custom home. Steve can provide a general idea of whether your budget will work.
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How much does a custom home cost per square foot?
This is a complex question that without knowing more detail like the complexity of the plan, the house size, what areas are being finished, is there a basement, etc. However, a good range to use for a custom home would be $115 to $130 per square foot.
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Once we decide we would like to hire Steve to build our home what is the process?
Steve and his on-staff designer will go to work on a footprint of the house to make sure it fits your desired home site. Simultaneously, a floor plan will evolve. A contract will be created that outlines what you are purchasing and what Steve Schutz is providing. Once these are acceptable, the designer will commence on a set of construction drawings and an elevation for the house. Business terms are outlines and construction drawings will be referenced as a part of the contract to avoid any misunderstanding.
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We have never built a house before. When do we chose the interior items such as carpeting, etc.?
Steve's contract will clearly outline the process and he will communicate in advance what critical decisions need to be made so you have plenty of time to consider what you want.
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I assume we can upgrade any condition within the house, such as having more expensive carpeting or a more expensive set of cabinets.
Yes. The contract will outline what is standard within your house price. Some areas you will be provided an "allowance" and Steve will show you what the allowance will purchase. You will have lots of options within the allowance budget; however, sometimes the client desires items that exceed that allowance. The additional expense (over the allowance) will be paid at closing.
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